Ambien is classified as a sedative remedy. The active ingredient of the treatment, Zolpidem, is appreciated for its ability to affect the brain chemicals and change the action of imbalanced ones, which cause insomnia and other sleeping problems. Considering the effect of the medication, it belongs to insomnia treatments. It is available in two forms, including immediate and extended release forms, which help either to fall asleep or stay asleep during the night. Additionally, Ambien can be administered off-label for other instances, not listed in the safety leaflet.
Contraindications, Warnings and Precautions before Ambien Therapy
Consult your healthcare provider before Ambien intake. Never start the treatment course before you make sure it will produce the desirable results without any harm to the overall health condition. Patients using Ambien had experience eating, driving, having sex, walking and doing other activities without remembering about them. Report the disorder to your doctor and replace the medication. Do not take Ambien in case you are sensitive to its ingredients or meet other contraindications. Besides, to ensure 100% safe Ambien therapy, a patient should warn a healthcare provider about other complications he/she has, including:
- Myasthenia gravis;
- Liver disorders;
- Kidney impairments;
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;
- Depression, anxiety and other mental complications;
- Alcohol or drug addiction, etc.
Since the drug may be habit-forming, it should never be used in higher doses or longer than your doctor recommended. Avoid the medication use in case you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is a high possibility of dangerous impact on the health of an unborn and nursing child. The drug cannot be used by children under 18 years old.
Read more: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9690/ambien-oral/details
Instructions for Safe Ambien Use
Administer the drug in the exact doses prescribed by the medical specialist. Never increase or decrease Ambien dose or duration of the therapy. Otherwise, you risk getting severe abnormalities and health complications. Never share the drug with other patients, even if they have similar symptoms. Ambien should be used only if you can devote 7-8 hours to sleep. Ambien is for short-term use, so warn your doctor if the symptoms do not improve. The maximal safe duration of the therapy is 4-5 weeks. Never stop Ambien intake suddenly, unless you want to get certain withdrawal reactions.
Combinations with Other Drugs
Do not take Ambien together with other treatments without doctor’s permission. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are using, especially:
- Antidepressants;
- Chlorpromazine;
- Ketoconazole and others.
Side Effects and Abnormalities
Seek emergency medical help if Ambien use resulted in severe allergic reactions or other abnormalities, especially:
- Anxiety;
- Stress;
- Breathing disorders;
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Fatigue;
- Severe headache;
- Swelling and others.